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Staff Engineer, Mechanical Test (R5475)

Shield AI· X-BAT Engineering - Mechanical
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Seattle, WA$160k - $240kFull Time EmployeePosted 2mo ago

About the role

Staff Engineer role focused on developing, testing, and validating advanced mechanical systems for Shield AI aircraft, with emphasis on hydraulic actuation, sensor integration, CAD design, and data analysis to inform hardware design and ensure environmental durability and safety.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute test plans to validate mechanical performance, structural integrity, and environmental durability from start to finish.
  • Design, build, and operate test fixtures and systems involving hydraulic actuation, mechanical linkages, and sensor instrumentation.
  • Integrate and calibrate a range of sensors (e.g., load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, accelerometers) into test setups for accurate data collection.
  • Create and maintain python scripts to provide automation, signal processing, and result visualization.
  • Analyze test data, troubleshoot system behaviors, and generate detailed technical reports with design feedback.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical design, systems, and electrical engineering to define test requirements, run test campaigns and deliver high quality results.
  • Lead CAD design of custom test equipment, prototypes, fixtures, and components, ensuring manufacturability and safety.
  • Perform Finite Element Analysis to simulate mechanical performance, validate design assumptions, and correlate analytical results with test data.
  • Work with metallic/composite materials in the design, fabrication, and testing of mechanical components, with consideration for their unique properties such as anisotropy, delamination risk, and layup configuration.
  • Support lab safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and continuous improvement of test capabilities.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in mechanical testing or product development environments.
  • Strong working knowledge of hydraulic systems and their control/measurement.
  • Experience with sensor selection, integration, and calibration in test environments.
  • Proficiency in Python for scripting, test automation, and data analysis.
  • Advanced CAD skills in Siemens NX with experience designing test hardware and prototypes.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and in team settings.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Skills

Required:Mechanical testing / product developmentHydraulic systemsSensor integration and calibrationPython for scripting, automation, data analysisSiemens NX CADFinite Element Analysis

Benefits

  • Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
  • Temporary employee offer package: Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
  • Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers contingent on cleared background and possible reference check.
  • Equal opportunity employer and accommodation statements included in the job description.
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Shield AI

Autonomy for the world.

Our mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems.

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